September Archives

Transfer Deadline Drama

...or lack thereof.

The headline is somewhat overstating matters, with the deadline wheeling and dealing minimised in this time of *ahem* recession. Indeed, none of the 'big 4' clubs in the English Premier League felt the need to strengthen their squad any, not even big-spending Man City who flat-out debunked rumours of a transfer deadline swoop for unused Spurs winger David Bentley (and rightly so - City have more than enough cover for the right wing anyway imo)...

Some fans may feel pleased at the confidence of their club's managers for not bringing in new talent, but I imagine some Liverpool fans may feel somewhat bitter at the lack of fresh faces, with heavy criticism of both their American owners and lack of squad depth fresh on their lips. But I'd also imagine they're not in the least bit surprised.

Perhaps the most notable signing from today's deadline is Spurs purchase of Portsmouth's 25-year-old attacking midfielder Niko Kranjcar, who will undoubtedly come straight into the squad as a replacement for the injured Luka Modric who broke his leg this past weekend. This is a signing that must be getting under the skin of Pompey fans, perhaps losing their last 'big name' and are now left with sub-par replacements that have thus far yet to prove their worth in the Premier League. Could this be a relegation battle Portsmouth are destined lose already in the season? It's too early to tell, but it doesn’t look good.

Another interesting signing comes in the form of John Heitinga, who signed for Everton for just over £6m, somewhat of a bargain in most people's eyes and value for money as a replacement for Joleon Lescott who moved to Man City earlier in the transfer window for £22m.

Although Aston Villa completed the signing of West Ham centre-back James Collins earlier in the day, the fans will undoubtedly wondering more about what exactly happened to the Richard Dunne deal which was reportedly set to sign for the Villains at the end of last week. Sky Sports Sources earlier claimed the deal had gone through today, but there is no official word of this by any party involved so we must assume that Villa missed out on the former Man City captain.

The full round up shapes up like this:

In: Aston Villa (J Collins), Birmingham (Tainio), Bolton (Klasnic), Burnley (Nugent), Everton (Heitinga), Fulham (Elm), Hull (Sonko), Portsmouth (Ben-Haim, Williamson, Yebda), Stoke (D Collins), Tottenham (Kranjcar)

Out: Manchester City (Ben-Haim), Portsmouth (Kranjcar, Nugent), Stoke (Sonko), Sunderland (D Collins, C Edwards, G Leadbitter, T Tainio), West Ham (J Collins)

Dunne Transfer Delayed

It has emerged earlier this evening that Aston Villa's proposed move for Richard Dunne from Man City has been delayed by the Premier League.

Villa agreed a £6m fee for the 29-year-old centre-back and finalised personal terms all before the 5pm deadline, but Premier League officials have requested extra time to "ratify the deal."

It is thought that the deal will be formally agreed this coming Wednesday.

Big 4 Contract Signings Galore

Well, um, 2 of the big 4 at least.

Whilst Arsenal and Chelsea didn't spend big (at least not for them) over the summer, this has seen a flurry of contract signings which will keep some of their more promising stars at their respective clubs just that little bit longer.

Arsenal today confirmed that both Nicklas Bendtner and Denilson have put pen to paper and signed long-term contracts with the club. 21-year-old Bendtner was in the final year of his previous deal and was delighted to sign on the dotted line.

"It means a lot that I can commit my future to Arsenal because I have a great affection for this club," the Danish striker told the clubs official statement.

Naturally, the talented Brazilian midfielder Denilson is also delighted with his new deal. "We have a hugely talented group of players here, and I am convinced that with everyone working together we'll be able achieve great things.

"It's a special time to be part of this club and I'm delighted to have signed a new long-term deal."

Meanwhile, London rivals Chelsea also signed a number of their star performers up to long-term contracts this week, beginning with John Terry who has signed a new 5 year that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2013/2014 season and earlier today the club also confirmed wrapping up talented left-back Ashley Cole up to a five year deal thought to be around £120,000 per week.

Chelsea Hit Hard By FIFA

Somewhat out of the blue, FIFA have announced that they've banned Chelsea from registering any new players within the next two Premier League transfer windows, or to put a date on it, until January 2011.

Why?

According FIFA's official website, French Club Lens "lodged a claim with FIFA seeking compensation for breach of contract" from former player Gael Kakuta, who joined Chelsea from Lens in 2007. FIFA also state that the French club are also requesting "sporting sanctions to be imposed on the player and the English club for breach of contract and inducement to breach of contract respectively."

What does this mean?

Lens president Gervais Martel sums it up with: "The player was under contract with us, and they came and stole him away from us."

As a result of the Dispute Resolution Chamber's (DRC) ruling, Kakuta was forced to cough up a massive 780,000 euros, as well as Chelsea having to fork out an additional 130,00 euros for "training compensation".

In addition to monetary penalties, both player and offending club were imposed with sporting sanctions FIFA state are "in accordance with art. 17 par.3 and 4 of the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players", which basically means Chelsea cannot register players until 2011 and Kakuta has been ineligible to play in official matches for four months.

What next?

Chelsea will make their appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and will "mount the strongest appeal possible" and will claim the sanctions arbitrarily dished out by the DRSC are "totally disproportionate to the alleged offence".

What now for Chelsea?

As an impartial bystander I have to say the punished dished out to Chelsea seems a little bit harsh for something seemingly happening everyday by other major European clubs.

Nevertheless, if their appeals fail they must accept FIFA's ruling and then what? Most pundits considered the Chelsea team's average age to quite high already and Anchelotti must consider how he's to keep all of his players fit and healthy until the beginning of 2011.

In his favour, however, is the considerable depth in squad that they have as well as an array of young talent more than eager to burst out of the youth team and take a more permanent role in the first eleven.

Will this affect this years title challenge? Mentally, maybe. However, I don't thing this drastically changes much as Chelsea's dealings in the summer transfer market wasn't as substantial as some and Abramovich's spending spree seems to have somewhat be floundering over past few seasons.

With smart managerial expertise at the helm I fully expect Chelsea to ride out the 'storm' and come out swinging in January 2011 - god help anybody who’s in their way.

Ferguson Backs UEFA Action

Today, Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has come out to back UEFA's decision to ban Arsenal’s Eduardo for two Champions League Matches.

The Croatian striker was found guilty of deceiving the referee in Arsenal's Champions League qualifier against Celtic last month, which Wenger considers to be a "witch-hunt" and claims that UEFA have set a "dangerous precedent whereby any decision made by an official can be contested after the match".

"I have to agree that something had to be done," the Scottish manager said.

However, as much as FIFA's decision to ban Chelsea from registering any players until 2011 was a curveball yesterday, Ferguson supports the way Wenger has dealt with the situation.

"I agree with Arsene, I would ask the same question 'is it going to happen to everyone?'

"You become insular and protective of your own player and own team, we're all selfish that way.

The Chelsea Transfer Affair - Reaction Junction

Appeal Reaction

On Thursday, FIFA announced that Chelsea were prohibited from registering any new players until January 2011 (as well as amassing a number of fines) over allegedly poaching young French player Gael Kakuta from Lens in 2007 and yesterday the club received an update on their situation.

Matthieu Reeb, secretary general for the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS for short), yesterday came out and suggested that Chelsea may have to wait three months before the CAS reveal their appeal decision.

"If the appeal is fielded within the deadline of the next 21 days we should have the appeal in the next two or three weeks," Reeb explained to Sky Sports News. "Then the CAS can proceed in an expedited manner depending on whether the party has agreed to expedite the procedure."

"But at the least we will probably issue a decision at the end of November or mid-December.

"We will have a panel of three arbitrators, so three judges. One will be selected by Chelsea the other by FC Lens and FIFA and the Chairman will be CAS.

"It will be a final decision which would replace the FIFA decision if necessary. The CAS decision can be appealed only before the Swiss Supreme Court which is for the Swiss tribunal.

"It could be a final ruling before Christmas."

Chelsea Players Reaction

How did the Chelsea players react to the situation? Will it affect their season? Will it affect the players mentality or damage morale? Club Captain John Terry responded to the news yesterday, although under orders not to get too opinionated in doing so.

"What is my reaction to the FIFA ban? It was a big shock to me and it is very difficult," he admitted.

"But it is difficult for me to talk about it. I have spoken to the club last night and again this morning and they have reiterated that I can't speak about it as they are appealing very strongly.

"It is something I can't speak about today. They are appealing and it's ongoing from there. Until after the appeal has gone in, or another decision has been made, I can't say anything."

So, yeah, not much insight there.

Former Chelsea Player Reaction

So how will the club fair in the Premier League and Europe - so many games with a potentially limited side?

Former Chelsea winger Arjen Robben believes that Chelsea will struggle to maintain their momentum carrying them to the Premier League title this season in the wake of the bad.

He told Sky Sports News: "It is very bad news for the club. It is still my club in England. I had a great time there so I am feeling very sorry for them."

When asked if Chelsea could struggle to compete, he added: "Yes. It is a two-year ban and they cannot buy any new players. But they have a great squad."

So, not so much a controversial opinion by the Dutch International, more stating the obvious.

Bight Future?

But hold up! It's not all doom and gloom for Chelsea! They have two players coming back from injury that should go to strengthen their squad. Midfielder Joe Cole, who has been sidelined since suffering cruciate knee ligament damage back in January, and, um, Paulo Ferreira, who has not played since damaging his anterior cruciate ligament last April.

So chin up you Blues!

Man Utd Next in the Firing Line

After Chelsea were hit with a lengthy transfer ban earlier in the week over allegedly 'poaching' a young player from French side Lens, it has now been confirmed that Le Havre president Jean-Pierre Louvel has contacted FIFA about Manchester United's signing of Paul Pogba.

Earlier in the week, FIFA announced they were yet to receive an official complaint from Le Havre but it seems with the success of Lens' appeal over Gael Kakuka Jean-Pierre Louvel thinks he now has a shot at getting a little compensation from a big Premier League club and hopes FIFA will come down just as hard on United as they did with the Blues.

"The player had a no-hire agreement, and so had to sign his first contract in France," Louvel told radio station France Info.

"But he didn't sign it because Manchester United contacted the parents and made astronomical and excessive financial propositions for a 15-year-old boy.

"We have submitted the case to FIFA. The letter to leave has not been agreed by the French Federation, so today FIFA has been referred.

"I hope we will get the same result (as the Gael Kakuta case), which could justify to those clubs they can't do anything and they have rules to respect."

I wonder just how many more will crawl out of the woodwork.

Man Utd Take a Stand

Yesterday Le Havre President Jean-Pierre Louvel contacted FIFA to lodge an official complaint over the alleged 'player poaching' of French youngster Paul Pogba, upon hearing Lens had successfully won their case against Chelsea last week. Today, Manchester Utd take a stand.

Man Utd officials have written to Le Havre threatening to take legal action if the allegations over "financial inducements" continue.

Le Havre claim that Man Ud offered money and a house to Pogba's family in order to prise the youngster away from the French club, however, Utd are angered at suggestions that they are broken the rules and say that there was no foul play involve in Pogba's capture.

"In response to the wholly unfounded comments widely reported in the media of Le Havre AC President, Jean-Pierre Louvel, Manchester United wish to categorically confirm that as a matter of club policy and in accordance with the applicable football regulations, we do not offer inducements to the parents of players who sign for the club such as monetary payments or the purchase of houses," said United in a statement.

"Manchester United have today written to Le Havre AC to put it on notice that action will be taken if such allegations are repeated in relation to the transfer of Paul Pogba.

"Manchester United is entirely satisfied that the transfer of Paul Pogba has been conducted in accordance with the regulations set down by the world governing body, Fifa.

"Manchester United is ready to defend any claim brought against it by Le Havre at Fifa.

"It is to be noted that all contractual documentation relating to the player's registration with the club has already been fully ratified by the Football Association and the Premier League." (source Sky Sports News).

In some regards, I'm happy about Utd's stance in this matter. Jean-Pierre Louvel is clearly taking advantage to the current climate and circumstance, hoping to earn a bit of coin at the expense of a club's reputation - that is of course, if there wasn't any wrong doing in the matter.

I feel at this juncture, despite the press coverage, we don’t really know the whole story and we probably never will.

The Poaching War Continues

Earlier today FIFA confirmed that a third French side had lodged an official complaint against a Premier League side, this time Rennes' technical director Pierre Dreossi accusing Manchester City of poaching Jeremy Helan.

According to Sky Sports News, Rennes initially lodged the complaint last Spring as the club felt there was wrong doing in prising the young French player away from the club.

In an official statement, FIFA announced: "We can confirm that there is a case pending with FIFA’s Player Status Department involving Jeremy Helan, Stade Rennais FC and Manchester City."

If found guilty of the charges, both the player and the Premier League side will undoubtedly face charges similar to those of Chelsea last week, but are expected to contest the complaint claiming they "have no case to answer in the Jeremy Helan transfer dispute."

Accoding to the club's official website: "Manchester City is aware of the ongoing contractual dispute in the French Labour Courts between Jeremy Helan and Stade Rennais FC.

"The dispute between the player and the club pre-dates any interest from Manchester City.

"Manchester City obviously cannot comment on the case until the French Judicial Process has run its course, however, we are comfortable that we have acted within the rules throughout the process and in no way induced any breach of contract by Jeremy Helan."

On the Home Front

But it's not just French clubs who have issues with some of the Premier League Club's transfer activity, it also seems Crewe had lodged an official complaint too, accusing Liverpool of illegally approaching 15-year-old academy player Max Clayton.

Crewe's director of football Dario Gradi told the Daily Express: "Max has come in and told us that he wants to leave right now to join a big club.

"You worry financially for the clubs where the players are stolen from.

"It's simple, the big clubs are stealing other people's players."

"I'm delighted with what has happened with Chelsea," added Gradi. "I would hope all the big clubs are frightened to death. There is no excuse for breaking the rules.

"We lost a 12-year-old to Everton. He was our best 12-year-old. The lure is that the bigger clubs pay big expenses.

"This kid will be getting several hundred pounds a week in expenses. We pay expenses but nothing like that. It's more a case of giving out £20 if someone can pick a kid up en-route.

"At least Fifa have given the smaller clubs hope."

But is that really poaching? Liverpool came in for an offer and it was rejected. Now the kid wants to leave to go to a bigger club? Dario Gradi doesn't say that Liverpool have coaxed the youngster into asking for his release, it seems they’ve just expressed interest - is that such a bad thing? Surely it was the player who has made the decision he wants out?

Should clubs be reported to FIFA when expressing in young, up and coming stars or has this been sensationalised, blown out of all proportions and gone too far? Or are we not being told the whole story?

It'll be interesting to see how this develops and what kind of precedent FIFA set in this matter.

Are Pompey Already Doomed?

Four games into the season perhaps this a debate is a little premature, but I can't get it out of my head that this club is in real trouble. Every time I try to decide on the teams that will be relegated this season, Portsmouth always seem to be on the tip of my tongue.

Is it wrong of me to think like this so early in the season? Or is it more of a grim premonition for the Pompey fans and owner to mull over?

Relegation Battlers

The Premier League is getting more competitive with each passing year, but with the 'big 4' teams seemingly etched at the top of the table, everything beyond has become something of a battleground; a bloody and brutal fight for established and rookie Premier League sides alike.

Similar to last year, the newly promoted sides are all showing that they won't simply rollover and die against the established Premier League sides. Burnley particularly stand out, adopting a stance similar style to Stoke last year, converting their home ground into a fortress and daring anyone to try and steal three points away from them. In fact, Burnley have already turned over two top five Premier League sides at home this season already, including reigning champions Man Utd and Everton.

Wolves and Birmingham have also adapted to life in the Premier League reasonably well, picking up points in some very hard-fought matches of their own. No doubt all three will finish in the bottom half of the table by the end of the season, but not one of them will go down without a fight.

In fact, it's a few of the more mainstay Premier League clubs who are currently joining Pompey at the foot of the table. Bolton and Blackburn are already looking a little worse for wear, but when thinking about those clubs I automatically think: battlers.

Both teams play a rough and ready sort of game that often makes it difficult for opposing teams to score goals and sometimes allows them to scrape a few scrappy wins or at least hold on for a point. When thinking about how Pompey have played this season, I don't consider them to have the same grit and determination to win battles in such a manner.

The stats say it all. Pompey rest at the foot of the table, having played four games and gaining no points. They've managed just one goal and, disturbingly, have already conceded seven. Bolton are next in line, playing three games, scoring two goals and conceding five. Finally, Blackburn have managed just the one point in their opening three games, scoring one goal and conceding four.

But how can stats from four (in some cases three) games into the season give me a sense of foreboding about the club?

It's simple: they can't. They can only paint the current picture. For me, the future of the club seemingly rests in the transfer market.

Transfers

It cannot be denied that Pompey's squad has been ravaged of some the better players over the summer and more worryingly, most of these have not been - and perhaps could not be - properly replaced.

Emanating from the club's worrying financial situation, a number of players felt at unease with their situation and the future of the club, losing faith in the club's board entirely in some cases.

Attacking right-back, Glen Johnson was the first notable name to leave, securing a transfer to Liverpool thought to be in the region of £17.5m. Established England striker, Peter Crouch, was the next to leave, securing himself a move to Spurs, reuniting with former Pompey strike partner Jermaine Dafoe. Next, the backbone of their defence, Sylvain Distin, was snapped up by Everton. Finally, the last of their 'stand-out' players, Niko Kranjcar, joined Crouch at Spurs on the transfer deadline day for the diminutive (and seemingly ridiculously low) fee of £2.5m.

Time will judge whether the replacements Pompey manager Paul Hart has brought into the club will live up to the skill and capabilities of their predecessors, but with second string players such as Michael Brown, Tal Ben Haim, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Aaron Mokoena, Steven Finnan and Antti Niemi, combined with relatively untested Frederic Piquionne, Tommy Smith, Mark Williamson and Anthony Vanden Borre becoming the bulk of the squad, I respectfully doubt it.

Conclusion

I had hoped that running through this article would alter my perception somewhat. I hoped it would make me reconsider my initial judgment and look to the rest of the season with some hope for the club, but I think I may have done the opposite.

I just can't see how Pompey can survive the current climate in Premier League, unless things change for the better - quickly.

Perhaps when the new transfer window opens if January, if things have not improved for the club, their new owner will realise the danger Pompey are faced with and attempt to buy the club out of the relegation zone.

And then the question becomes: will anyone of note want to join them?

England Stun Croatia

Last night saw a complete turnaround of the dismal result that dumped us out of the Euro 2008 qualifiers when Croatia edged a close victory against England, indicating an overall improvement under Capello's tenure as coach and bringing the winning streak to eight consecutive games won within the World Cup Qualifiers.

But it wasn't just a victory of the Croats - it was a demolishing. Five good goals, which could easily been ten or twelve if Heskey could actually finish. Goals by Lampard (2), Gerrard (2) and Rooney - not to mention a spectacular performance by red-hot Aaron Lennon - helped to secure the victory and ensuring England a place in next year's World Cup.

Coach Capello said: "I'm very happy. We've achieved our target early.

"I think this was the best performance under me. We played fast, pressed the ball and our movement was fantastic."

"Both of our performances against Croatia pleased me," stated Capello. "We need to press hard, play fast and develop our movement on and off the ball - and we showed that in both games."

"We are a good team, we are playing well but we have to keep our feet on the ground."

Are Pompey Already Doomed? Part II

Earlier in the week I wrote an article questioning whether Portsmouth were already doomed this season, yielding worrying results for Pompey fans and I thought I’d touch briefly on the subject again.

So What’s Changed?

Not much, but enough. Today Pompey manager, Paul Hart, has insisted that he will not be reading too much into Portsmouth's difficult start to the season. Seriously, Paul?

At the moment the team don't look capable of beating anybody, much less mounting a campaign to dragged themselves from the relegation zone and perhaps this Saturday's game will somewhat of a proving ground.

Bolton lie just above Pompey at the foot of the table are facing somewhat of turbulent start to the season themselves and three points at the weekend is undoubtedly vital for both sides.

"Wherever we were and whether we have 12 points, nine points or no points, Bolton will always be an extremely tough game," Hart stated.

"Where we are in the league makes no difference and you can't say whether relegation is upon us or not five games in.

"Three points is what we are after and whether it's Bolton or Man United, we'd still be looking for a win in this situation.

"I'd rather concentrate on our position than Bolton's, and the onus is on us to go out and grab three points."

Salvation

But have no fear Pompey fans! Your salvation is here! Today you signed Danny 'The Goal Machine' Webber on a free transfer! Yes, that’s right! Danny Webber! Your survival is assured!

Okay, enough sarcasm. It was a bit harsh to be fair, but that was my honest reaction when I heard the news. It just doesn't make sense to me in the slightest. Why sign him? Again, I may be speaking prematurely, but he's clearly not of a Premier League standard and I very much doubt it'll expand Paul Hart's attacking options beyond having another player in the squad for a reasonable price i.e. nothing (though I'd still argue that) in case anyone gets injured.

But surely Nugent is of a better quality than Webber? I know he and Wilson had a bit of a pre-season spat, but come on. Maybe I'm being too critical. Maybe I'm being the 'arm-chair coach' and basing my opinions too much on Football Manager (I'd argue rationality, but that's me).

In either case, Paul Hart has a completely different opinion: "When I found out Danny was available I asked him to come down and train with us - and I was delighted with what I saw."

"He plays off the shoulder of defenders and gives us another attacking option.

"I wanted to sign him when I was at Nottingham Forest, but he went to Watford. He's another one who's hungry with something to prove."

Hart does realise that they aren’t in the Championship, right?

Right?

In all honesty, I'd love for this article to come back and bite me in the arse. I'd love Webber to score 15 goals this season and elevated Pompey from relegation and keep them safe for another a year.

But he won't.

An Accumulator For the Weekend: Week 1

For those of you who don't know what an accumulator is, let me explain it the best I can. An accumulator is a type of bet where you select 4 or more selections (if you choose 3, it's a treble and 2 is a double) and in order to win ALL of your selections must be successful.

Some like this bet because you get relatively high (or accumulated) odds, but others don't because they consider it to be a mugs bet because if just one of your selections doesn't come in, they the whole thing has been a waste of money. Whilst I understand both sides of the argument, I choose to embrace the accumulator as a bit of fun and can make a Saturday afternoon in the pub a little more interesting (especially if your team isn't playing).

But for the purposes of this article, the gambling element of this practice isn't all that important - it's the selection process. What I'm going to do here is to run through my selections for this week and give my reasoning on precisely why I chose them and invite you all reading this article to do the same all in the name of fun (because I seriously don't advocate putting any money on my selections nor your own hahaha).

The first rule I usually go by is: don't make any selections unless you REALLY know the league, or enough games have passed to get a fair idea how that league is shaping up. Why? Well if you know the league and the teams off by heart, then at least you have a fair idea on how a certain team will fair or indeed whether you should just stay away from the fixture altogether (i.e. Tottenham v Man Utd) and of course, if there are enough games played you get enough stats to paint a rough picture in your head of possible selections. With the league stats it's important to review league positions, home form, away form and previous meetings.

I know the Premier League fairly well (or at least I think I do) so that's where I'll start. At first glance there are a few difficult fixtures this week. I've decided immediately I'm going to veer away from the big games like Tottenham v Man Utd, Man City v Arsenal and Birmingham v Aston Villa (I think we can take 'em! Up the Villa!). I also avoid the teams with unreasonably close league positions such as Fulham v Everton and Portsmouth v Bolton (both teams look shocking at the moment, 0-0 or 0-1 I reckon). Then there are the others which I just don’t like the looks of, such as Blackburn v Wolves, Stoke v Chelsea (the Britannia is like a fortress now, I can see Stoke getting a sneaky point out of this) and Wigan v West Ham. In fact, the only two games I do fancy in the Premier League this week are Liverpool v Burnley and Sunderland v Hull.

Liverpool v Burnley

I think Liverpool will be looking to get their season back on track and beating Burnley at Anfield will be a perfect platform to do it.

Sunderland v Hull

West Brom v Plymouth Argyle

Charlton v Southampton

So to recap, my accumulator will be Liverpool, Sunderland, West Brom and Charlton - what's yours?

Feeling confident with your selections? Feel like you can't be wrong? Why don't you put your money where your mouth is and make your weekend a little more interesting! Click the banner below to get your FREE �£200 Bet from Bet365.com

UEFA Champions League Fantasy Football

That's right, the UEFA Champions League is will kick off tomorrow night and that means quality footy action from all over Europe will be hitting our TV screens once again. Excited? Well hang onto your trousers because it's about to get even more exciting!

UEFA are running their UEFA Champions League Fantasy Football game again this year and in the name of competition (and fun) FootyBanter.co.uk has created it’s own private league with a prize fund of £25 heading towards the overall winner (sent via paypal).

So come, get involved!

How to Enter

Just head on over to the UEFA website, hit the "Champions League" tab, then the "fantasy" link.

Register on the site.

Select your team.

Then click on the "Leagues" link, click the "Join League" tab and finally enter 98957-23209 into the form.

And yes, like the Premier League fantasy football game, it’s completely FREE to enter - so what are you waiting for?

Justice Served?

The FA has confirmed that Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor has been hit with a double charge following Saturday's victory over former club Arsenal.

The Togo International has been charged with violent conduct after clearly and purposefully stomping on Robin Van Persie's face as well as improper conduct after running the entire length of the pitch celebrating the goal at the Eastlands.

And rightfully so too. The goal celebration seemed innocent enough to the neutral viewer, but I can easily empathise with the Arsenal fans after he first would them and the Arsenal players up by maliciously standing on Van Persie's head. However, what people are quite willing to forget blinded by Adebayor's actions on the pitch was the poor ground steward who was knocked unconscious by a missile thrown from the Arsenal fans (as discussed here at Soccerlens).

Adebayor apologised for his actions over the celebration, but claims innocence over the face stamp. Really? I don't think so, but judge for yourself:

If found guilty of violent conduct, Adebyaor will be dealt a three-match ban and will miss Saturday's derby against Manchester Utd and that suspension could only be increased if also found guilty of improper conduct.

"The Football Association today issued two charges against Manchester City's Emmanuel Adebayor following Saturday's Premier League fixture between Manchester City and Arsenal," said a statement issued by the FA.

"Under the fast-track disciplinary process, Adebayor has been charged with violent conduct following an incident with Robin van Persie, which resulted in the Arsenal player receiving facial injuries.

"Referee Mark Clattenburg has advised the FA that he did not see this incident, but has confirmed that had he done so, he would have sent Adebayor off for violent conduct. The player has until 6pm on Wednesday evening to respond to the charge.

"Adebayor has also been charged with improper conduct following his actions when turning and running the full length of the pitch to celebrate in front of the Arsenal supporters after scoring.

"The Greater Manchester Police have written to The FA with their views on this incident. A separate date will now be arranged for a commission to consider Adebayor's goal celebration." (source: sky sports news).

20% Off At the NIKE store!!!!

There's a sale on! 20% off at the online NIKE Store. Just Enter code: EXTRA20 at the checkout and take advantge of this fantastic offer TODAY!!!!!!

Just click on the banner below and navigate your way to your discount NOW!

Can Villa Stay Ahead of the Curve?

For Villa fans, last season was a joy to behold. Under relatively new management and ownership the club flourished, rising from mid-table obscurity to credible contenders to break into the 'Big 4'.

Of course, they didn't. Despite some prudent buying and sound tactics, Villa just couldn't keep up the momentum they'd built so strikingly in the first half of the season. The squad depth was minimal and sadly they couldn't maintain their stamina whilst vying for the fourth spot (which became the fifth spot toward the latter stages of the season) in the greatest league in the world as well as trying to carve out a decent run in the UEFA Cup.

Ultimately, Villa finished sixth; 1 point shy of Everton in fifth and ultimately ten points behind Arsenal in fourth.

This season, despite a good performance last year, most (and I was of these) expected things to get worse. The 'big 4' seemed unbreakable as ever, Everton again had a strong team on paper and with emergence of big spending Man City and flourishing Tottenham, maintaining their stature in the top half of the table seemed something like a uphill battle. Add to this losing arguably their best player, Gareth Barry, to one of their immediate rivals and the dim outlook on the new season prior to the first kick off is somewhat understandable. But what really did it for me was the lack of transfers.

As mentioned previously, the squad depth was an issue last season I expected that to worked upon, especially with selling Barry to City, Zat Knight going to Bolton and our leading centre-back Martin Laursen retiring due to injury. But O'Neill didn't develop much at all in the way of transfers (pre-season at least). The only interesting buy he made was Stuart Downing, but why buy another left-winger when Villa already have the superlative Ashley Young playing in that position? It didn't - and still doens't for that matter - make sense to me. And I really couldn't understand why O'Neill went into the season with only two established first-team centre-back's in the squad.

The decision baffled me, but then he brought in Collins, Dunne and Warnock and relived my doubts a little - but not entirely. To me it still seems like we've got a hole in our centre midfield, with Reo-Coker being Villa's best option in my own opinion. I don't think Petrov can really shine at this level and Delph is frankly too young and lacks Premiership experience to be all that effective.

And when Villa lost their opening game of the season against Wigan and at home no less, I really felt like our season was over and with the odds stacked against them, Villa would struggle to get a place in the top half of the table, never mind be a threat to the 'Big 4'.

Then things picked up - considerably. Defying the odds, Villa picked up a well-fought victory against Liverpool at Anfield, following up by a home win against last season rivals Fulham and then picking up a victory against local rivals Birmingham at St Andrews.

With a game in hand, Villa stand at the brink of breaking into a top 4 once again, but this early in the season it doesn't mean a whole lot and the question becomes can Villa stay ahead of the curve?

Honestly, I don't think so. Although Everton are having a torrid start to the season, both Man City and Tottenham are flourishing and will be hard to beat. Also, Villa still haven't really fully solved the squad depth issue. I believe they are relatively strong at the back now, with Dunne, Davies and Cueller become a particularly good combination, but as I highlighted before, Villa are still weak in the centre and that could become costly in some of the more hard-fought matches of the season.

Why do I think they'll finish? As it stands, my money rests on 7th place but I will not be all that surprised if we fall beyond the 10th spot and enter the realms of the lower half of the table.

Here's hoping the Villa superlative away form continues...

Sponsored Post: Sporting Index Trading Talk

As the top clubs return from their European travels, managers, players and spread bettors start to turn their attention to the weekend's action. There will be plenty for punters to get their teeth into on the spread markets, headed by a mouth-watering Old Trafford Manchester derby at the top of the bill. Since United's humbling loss to Burnley last month they have come out fighting to stick one to sellers of their outright Championship index spread, currently at 38-41pts (60pts to champions, 40pts to runner-up, 20pts to third place etc). Despite big-spending City's unbeaten start to the season, the red half of Manchester will be convinced their team can achieve a third successive league win over their local rivals and are favourite to do so according to the Sporting Index football traders.

Buyers of United's win index spread will be hoping Sir Alex can lead his side to their fifth win of the season and will be pleased that the Red Devils' home form has been near perfect - they've lost just one and drawn two of their last 20 matches at Old Trafford. United also won 13 of these 17 victories to nil, which will be a worry to sellers of the first Manchester City goal, but won't trouble sellers of Manchester City's goal minutes, despite a rampant win over Arsenal last weekend. Those looking to sell United?s match supremacy spread will remember back to the 2007/08 season when City did the double over United.

This particular derby has proved profitable for both buyers and sellers of the total bookings spreads in past seasons. While the last game at Old Trafford between these two saw a make-up of just 20 points, the previous encounter produced a hefty 85 points - buyers will remember Cristiano Ronaldo?s dismissal fondly. Spread bettors may elect to wait until after kick-off for an in-play spread bet, once they've seen how the officials will handle this potentially explosive derby.

Carlo Ancelotti has adapted to life in England extremely well and still has an impressive 100% record in the league. Those spread bettors to have bought Chelsea's outright Championship index will have been encouraged by the Blues' fast start. Their current spread is set at 45-48pts with Sporting Index.

Sunday sees Chelsea take on a Tottenham side who will be looking for a quick return to winning ways after their home defeat to Manchester United. Spread buyers of the supremacy market should note Chelsea's formidable home record against the Lilywhites and bear in mind that Spurs haven't won at Stamford Bridge since 1990, although sellers of the spread will remember that Tottenham managed a 1-1 draw last season. Those with an interest in the total goals spread may be aware that the two fixtures last year only produced three goals but jubilant spread buyers and shocked traders will have contrasting memories of the 4-4 classic in 2008. Sellers should also be aware that Tottenham have only managed to net on two occasions at the Bridge in the league during the last four years.

An Accumulator For the Weekend: Week 2

My selections for last week almost made me a little money, but with accumulators almost is not enough. Liverpool to beat Burnley, West Brom beat Plymouth and Sunderland beat Hull, but Charlton (who had a 100% record up until this match) could only manage a draw at home against Southampton. It wasn’t a result anyone could see coming and that’s probably why it’s so damned annoying. Let’s hope my selections for this week fair better.

Arsenal to Beat Wigan (handicap -1)

Okay, so Arsenal have a few injuries and were almost embarrassed royally during the week by Standard Liege, but let’s face it, Wigan’s away record isn’t the best having already lost to Everton and Blackpool (in round 2 of the League Cup) this season, with a home record not much better having lost 5-0 to Man Utd last month. Whereas, Arsenal have yet to be defeated at home this season and I’m so confident that they’ll win, I’m going to back them with a -1 handicap (meaning Arsenal have to win by 2 clear goals).

Aston Villa to Beat Portsmouth

I’m a little wary of backing Villa at their home ground - we have a system set up geared more towards away games and therefore comes as no shock that our away record is better than our home record, somewhat highlighted on the opening day of the season when the Villains were truly embarrassed by Wigan. However, since that game we have been undefeated and even carved out a nice 2-0 home win against last season mid-table rivals Fulham a couple of weeks back. Am I worried about the bust up between O’Neill and Reo-Coker (who is almost certainly not playing tomorrow)? Yes I am. I think Reo-Coker is the only decent central midfielder we have at the moment and it’ll be a real shame to lose him, but I think our talented wingers and rock solid defence will more than make up for it.

And Portsmouth…well, what can I say? They’ve yet to win a game all season and I still think they’ll be facing the drop come May. Whilst I think this maybe the one bet that’ll bite me in the arse this week, I just can’t see Villa not winning this match - I just hope it’s my favourite team blinkers not making the decision for me.

Juventus to Beat Livorno

So I thought I’d go to Italy to pick out my next bet, as I liked the look of the fixture despite the league only being 3 games into the season. I feel Juventus are back to their winning ways after having rising from the ashes of their league demotion a few years back and are finally getting results. They have a strong team again and I feel will really challenge Inter for the Serie A crown this year.

Livorno were newly promoted to Serie A last year and haven’t had the best of starts so far, drawing 2 and losing 1 and I just think Juve will have the strength to see the new side off.

Real Madrid to Beat Xerez (-1 Handicap)

Look at me being all continental and whatnot! But really, I liked the look of this fixture because it’s so similar to the Juve selection: a ridiculously strong team playing at home against a newly promoted side. Despite the league only being 2 games in and thus unable to see what all the teams are capable of, I’m confident that Real will pound the newcomers and so do the bookmakers. The odds were VERY short for this one and so I slapped on the - handicap to beef things up a little, but I really don’t think it’s going to be much of a obstacle.

Round Up

So here’s the rundown:

- Arsenal to beat Wigan with a -1 handicap.

- Villa to beat Portsmouth

- Juventus to beat Livorno

- Real Madrid to beat Xerez with a -1 handicap

Good luck for the weekend and follow me in on this bet at your own peril!!!

Bitter Blues

For those of you who didn't watch yesterday's thrilling Manchester derby, with the event crammed with slopping defending, time-keeping controversy and crowd trouble I defy anybody to argue that wasn't an all round entertaining affair.

The 4-3 scoreline in one sensed illustrated just how close the two teams have become, but it also clearly illustrated poor defending and ever-alert forwards. The entertain was marred somewhat by the crowds reacting badly to Carlos Tevez' return to Old Trafford, which at half time culminated in a missile being thrown from the terraces which veered away from the intended target of Tevez and hit substitute Garrido in the face.

Also in the match, a fan ran onto the pitch and whilst the stewards soundly tackled him to the ground and tried to drag him off the pitch, Craig Bellamy decided it to be the perfect time to demonstrate his boxing skills, striking the fan across the cheek, which now is being investigated by the police and the FA.

Naturally, Mark Hughes attempted to defend his players actions. After he defended Adebayor clearly stamping on Robin Van Persie’s face last week, how could he not?

"I did not see it but the guy should not have been on the pitch. That is not acceptable." Clearly, Mark. He added, "Brian Clough clipped someone's ear. He was lauded a national hero. Maybe it'll be the same with Craig but I doubt it." Well, yes but Clough wasn’t a known thug, was he?

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: "At the end of the derby between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford, a member of the public ran on to the pitch, and was detained by police and security staff.

"During this time, there was an altercation between the man and a player from Manchester City FC.

"No formal complaint has been made by either party but police are continuing to make inquiries."

An FA spokesman said: "We are investigating the incident and we will be looking at the referee's match report."

However, the incident seemed somewhat overshadowed by the extra time controversy which lead to Man Utd’s winning goal.

"We need an explanation because I don't know why the referee has added that amount of time on," said Hughes.

"We just feel a little bit aggrieved that they were given that time."

"I have not had a word with the referee yet but the the fourth official [Alan Wiley] tried to give me an explanation of sorts as I was questioning the amount of time added on even before the game finished," stated Hughes.

"His explanation did not sit comfortably with me. He said a minute plus had been added because of our celebration. We scored on 90 minutes, the board was already up for four minutes, so Mr Wiley said he was going to add that minute on.

"The amount of time from when we scored to when we kicked off was something like 45 seconds. He has got that wrong as well. It was 95 minutes, 26 seconds.

"Obviously, he has played too much time and we ended up playing 97 minutes. I just needed an explanation as to why so much time was needed. United were given a little more time than they should have been given to get the goal.

"Historically it has happened before. I was in teams here where we always had a little bit of benefit. I never felt it was an issue when we played here.

"But since I have left maybe I have changed my view on that. I am not going to question anyone's integrity but I do not know where has got seven minutes from.

"It would be nice to get an explanation but I don't think I will."

The explanation is simple Mr. Hughes: 56 seconds taken off the clock for Bellamy's goal celebration and another 30 seconds taken off for the substitution. Pure and simple, which puts the goal just within the limits. But truth be told, if I were Hughes I'd be wanting explanations from my ridiculously expensive defence rather than on issues of time-keeping.

Sponsored Post: Sporting Index Trading Talk Vol 2

The Premier League goal glut continued last weekend, much to the delight of the majority of buyers of total goals spreads. The Big Four played their part with games involving those clubs seeing an incredible 19 goals, and notably in the Manchester derby, which saw seven goals. Buyers of goal minutes at 130-140 minutes would have been ecstatic with a return of 240 times their stake at the final whistle, while buyers of the shirt numbers spread were already in raptures before Michael Owen tucked in his 96th minute winner. The final make-up reached 161. Not all sellers were distraught however, as spread punters to have sold multi-corners (number of first-half corners multiplied by second-half corners) would have been delighted to see a corner-kick-free first 45 at Old Trafford on Sunday.

United follow this with a trip to Stoke City's Britannia Stadium fortress, where spread bettors to have sold United's supremacy will know that the Potters lost just four games last season. The comparisons drawn between Stoke's home and Burnley's Turf Moor are extremely welcome to sellers of United's win index spread, as the Clarets of course defeated United there earlier in the season. Spread punters who followed the progress of Tony Pulis's first top-flight season will remember however that United were one of the several clubs to leave the Britannia with three points, thanks only to a late Carlos Tevez goal. Chelsea are the only other member of the Big Four to play here so far this season and interestingly also required a last gasp winner. Buyers of the time of the last match goal will hope for a similar spread make-up on Saturday.

Due to their demolition jobs on Everton, Portsmouth and Wigan, Arsenal have reportedly helped Sporting Index spread punters to pocket £500,000 already this season. Wenger?s charges must make the short trip across London to Craven Cottage where buyers of the Gunners' supremacy spread will hope that Fulham feel the full force of Arsenal's flowing-football wrecking ball. Since the Cottagers moved back into the top flight the teams have met on sixteen occasions, and, unsurprisingly to buyers of Arsenal's win index spread, the north Londoners have won 12 times. Though more encouragingly for sellers of the visitors' spread Fulham have won two of the last three Gunners matches they have hosted.

Spread punters who regularly like a wager on the player goal markets may be surprised to see Thomas Vermaelen leading Van Persie, Eduardo and Fabregas as Arsenal's current top scorer. Buyers of his goal minutes spread against the Roy Hodgson's side will hope for more from the classy Belgian who bagged a brace for a 74 minute make-up against Wigan. For other interesting football spread bets plenty of Sporting Index punters love to play the bookings index markets. Interestingly, the three most recent head-to-heads have produced just two bookings but before punters rush to sell the spread perhaps they would be wise to consider the three prior matches. They averaged a bookings index spread make-up of 75, including a match at Craven Cottage three years ago which saw nine yellow cards and an early bath for Philippe Senderos.

Campbell to Leave Notts County?

Well, it happened. It was bound to, wasn't it? How could Sven Goren Eriksson hope to maintain the facade any longer?

Despite the generous wage of £40k a week, Sol Campbell has realised that Notts County is actually a League Two side and, just one month into his five-year contract, has told the club he wants to leave.

Of course, I was being sarcastic. That isn't the REAL reason he wants to leave (I don't think it is anyway...), but, um, no other reason was actually given. It has only been confirmed this morning that Campbell wants to leave and Notts County have told him they will not stand in his way.

Rather bizarre, perhaps Campbell just doesn't like to lose.

Arsenal Youngster Wilshire Under Fire

Bright up-and-coming Gunners youngster Jack Wilshire is under fire following his actions in yesterday's Carling Cup victory over West Brom and more specifically his role in Jerome Thomas' red card.

From the Baggies perspective, gaffer Roberto Di Matteo claimed: "There was an exchange of words and Thomas reacted. He reacted to what was said, something insulting."

Whilst on the other side of the coin, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger claimed he missed the incident and said: "My eyes aren't great and my ears are worse." Perhaps the second most comical thing he’s said this year beyond the Mark Hughes comment from a few weeks back...

Di Matteo accepted that Thomas ultimately deserved his dismissal, but added: "I'm disappointed that Wilshere didn't accept his hand.

"He wanted to help him get up, actually. He's a fellow colleague. But, anyway, that's part of the game.

"I'm very proud of my players and my team. I'm not disappointed in my player. Thomas went to shake hands, Wilshere refused and Thomas reacted. There was an exchange of words and a reaction."

Wenger said Wilshere was injured in the initial challenge but could not shed any light on what followed.

"I could not hear anything from the touchline," he explained.

"Thomas has reacted, and in these cases you always need to control your nerves. Have you any excuses? I don't know - but Jack looked upset as well, he said he has been kicked."

Perhaps just handbags at dawn combined with Matteo having a few sour grapes due to the loss, but it does make you wonder just what was said...

(source: BBC)

Split Decision: The Sol Campbell Departure

Following yesterday's news of Sol Campbell's departure from Notts County, it seems there is something of a split opinion regarding the reasoning of the 35-year-old's sudden walk-out.

When the news broke yesterday, there seemed to be little or no reasoning behind it, with both the club and Campbell's agent keeping tight-lipped and entirely political about the whole thing, which has thus prompted The Mirror and The Independent to generate reasons (perhaps of their own).

The Mirror claims Campbell left the League Two club because he had a nightmare debut, or in the words of the James Nursey it was because he "hated his Notts County debut at Morecombe so much." However, Sam Wallace and Nick Harris over at The Independent claim "Sol Campbell walked out on Notts County because he did not believe that the promised investment from the club's secretive owners Munto Finance would ever materialise." Something of a split opinion, I�m sure you'll agree, but they go on to state that "Campbell came to believe that Munto's money was being channelled into their newly acquired Formula One team BMW Sauber rather than Notts County. Having been told by the director of football, Sven Goran Eriksson, that his ambition to become a coach and a manager could be fulfilled at the club, currently in England's fourth tier, Campbell quickly lost faith in the project."

A bizarre turn of events all around, I feel. One month into his five-year deal at the club and Campbell quits because promises were not fulfilled? I'm not sure I buy this as is, but I suspect there's a whole lot more to this than what has currently been made public.

An Accumulator For the Weekend: Week 3

Success! For the first time this season I got a return on one of my accumulators and a quite decent one at that! What’s more, I think I know why.

The teams and results are becoming more stable and finally form is kicking in to make the accumulator choices a little easier for me to pick, at least for the English leagues. With Spain and Italy a few games behind us so to speak, I reckon a couple more weeks before those results become stable. That said Barcelona and Read Madrid have already asserted their dominance upon La Liga, already notching up relatively easy wins and thus far earning maximum points.

Definitely something to think about.

Liverpool Over Hull -1 Handicap

A relatively predictable selection for my first pick. Liverpool are on relatively decent form at the moment, whereas Hull are struggling and I think will continue to struggle all season.

The first consideration has to be the opposing league positions. Liverpool currently reside in 3rd place, with Hull helping Portsmouth hold up the bottom of the table in 19th. Liverpool have won all but one of their home games this season (but that was to the mighty Villa, so that can be perfectly understood haha), as well as having a fairly decent away record, only losing out to red-hot Tottenham Hotspur during the first week of the new season. Hull on the other hand have yet to notch up an away win this season and as stated before, look a little shaky. I doubt it'd take much to beat them at the moment imo.

This is set in stone a Liverpool win, or at least I hope it is.

Tottenham Over Burnley

Despite Tottenham's wobble last weekend against Chelsea, they came blazing back from the defeat midweek away to Preston North End, netting five goals and basically dominating the game. True enough, even when all of their back four line-up were fit they did concede too many goals, but as they've proven already this season, they can generally outscore their opponents without too much difficulty.

Burnley are undefeated at home this season in the Premier League, but have also yet to win away from Turf Moor. They are a tough side to play against, especially with Nugent find a little bit of form, but I seriously think the Spurs strike force to be too overwhelming for them to resist.

Real Madrid Over Tenerife

As previously posted, Real Madrid are on awesome form at the moment proving to be every bit a match for Barca and so they should be with the likes of Ronaldo and Kaka becoming the stable of their team. What does concern me about Real is Manuel Pellegrini's promise to rotate the squad. Yes, they have quality in depth but sometimes rotating the squad can cause lack of consistency in play and almost guarantees there’ll be a slip up somewhere down the line.

I just hope this isn't it.

West Brom Over Crystal Palace

West Brom are in superb form at the moment, strolling to a 5-0 victory at Middlesbrough last weekend and basically dominating the Championship at the moment. Whilst I do think the bubble will burst at some point and fixtures will invariably become more and more difficult, I don’t think it's going to start tomorrow against Palace.

So that's my 4 for this week, let's hope I get a little of the same luck from last week! Good luck all!

West Ham & Millwall charged by FA

Between them, the teams have amassed a total of seven charges by the FA for failure to control theirs, following a pitch invasion in a Carling Cup match on 25th August this year.

Both clubs have been accused to have taken insufficient measures to prevent missile throwing and violent behaviour at Upton Park, with West Ham being held accountable for four of the charges, Millwall for the remaining three. Or as the official FA statement put it the clubs did not ensure their supporters conducted themselves in an orderly fashion "in and around the ground".